Pope Leo XIV has called for stronger regulation of artificial intelligence, urging developers and political leaders to focus on the common good instead of profit as AI continues to influence jobs, warfare and daily life.
In his first encyclical titled ‘Magnifica Humanitas’, released on Monday, the pope raised concerns about the growing influence of AI and warned against leaving major human decisions in the hands of machines.
The document, which had been anticipated since Leo became the first American-born pope, focused on the ethical and social impact of artificial intelligence and the need for accountability in its development and use.
Leo criticised what he described as a “culture of power” driving the global AI race, especially in the area of military technology.
He stressed that AI systems should not be allowed to make life-and-death decisions without human involvement.
Leo wrote that it was “not permissible” to entrust irreversible and lethal decisions to AI systems, a position that may place him at odds with the administration of US President, Donald Trump, which supported reducing restrictions on AI development.
The pope also warned about the concentration of data and influence in the hands of a few private companies, saying stronger oversight was necessary to protect vulnerable groups, especially children.
“It is not enough to invoke ethics in the abstract; robust legal frameworks, independent oversight, informed users and a political system that does not abdicate its responsibility are required,” he wrote.
“A more moral AI is not enough if that morality is determined by a few.”
Leo appealed to technology companies and regulators to slow down and think carefully about the long-term impact of artificial intelligence.
He urged them to prioritise humanity over personal gain and political influence.
The Vatican presented the document during an event attended by leaders in the AI industry, including representatives linked to Anthropic, one of the leading AI firms in the United States.
The pope also addressed the use of AI in warfare, warning that technology has contributed to the “normalization of war” by reducing public sensitivity to its human cost.
He called for transparency from developers to ensure accountability in military decisions involving AI systems.
Leo signed the document on May 15 to mark the 135th anniversary of Rerum Novarum, the landmark text by Pope Leo XIII that focused on workers’ rights and the responsibilities of governments and employers during the Industrial Revolution.
- ABC